Habitat - Moist ground along rocky wooded banks, ledges, and thickets, also along streams and in moist woodland.

Origin - Native to U.S.

Other info. - This striking species is found mainly in the eastern Ozark section of Missouri but is also found in a few northeastern counties. The plant is easy to ID in flower but can be mistaken for other species in the family when observed vegetatively.
Traditionally the roots of the plant were used to make a tincture or tea that would remedy weak appetite and stimulate digestion. These mixtures were also used for headaches, hepatitis, jaundice, and consumption.

Photographs taken at South Mountain State Park, NC., 10-25-02 (DETenaglia); also in St. Francois State Park, St. Francois County, MO, 10-24-2011 (SRTurner).